Exoplanets: Exploration of Alien Worlds at the Museum of Nature and Science
An exoplanet is a planet outside of the Solar System. Many exoplanets have been discovered, some of which fall within the ‘Goldilocks’ range that scientists consider habitable. The Museum of Nature & Science will explore the science of exoplanets during the September 28 Family Science Saturdays, held in the museum classroom at 2 p.m. Registration is not required and the program is free.
The Solar System includes eight official planets (plus Pluto!) that orbit a star formally known as Sol. How many other celestial bodies in the Milky Way Galaxy and throughout the universe also manage a system of planets? As of August 2013, NASA’s Keplar Mission has discovered 884 exoplanets orbiting 683 stars. How many of those planets are potentially habitable alien worlds?
This Family Science Saturday class with include a brief presentation that explores exactly what a planet is and how exoplanets are discovered, as well as multiple hands-on demonstrations and an experiment of habitable characteristics.
The museum is located at 411 North Main Street and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For additional information, visit the website at: las-cruces.org/museums or call (575)522-3120.
If you need an accommodation for a disability to enable you to fully participate in this event please contact the museum 48 hours prior to the event.